Oculo cardiac reflex : An unique neural link between the eyes and heart

Heart by development originates from near the same spot , where the brain develop (Neuralcrest) .Hence there is no surprise to note, heart being a primary vascular organ still retain many neural connections with brain .Eyeballs with it’s extensive neural inputs can be considered as adirect extension of brain.

Oculo cardiac reflex .

When the eyeballs or the ocular muscles are manipulated or massaged slowing of heart rate can occur .This is due to a reflex called Oculo cardiac reflex mediated by vagal stimulation .This phenomenon is also referred to as Aschner phenomenon

Rarely sudden death has been reported (Smith R (1994). “Death and the occulocardiac reflex.”. Can J Anaesth41 (8): 760. )

OCR for termination of SVT/AVNRT : , One can use the eyeballs to stimulate the brain stem nucleus of vagus to terminate a rapid supraventricular tachycardia (Like carotid sinus message) .Cold water immersion of eye is effective way to stimulate the vagus.(Diving reflex -Mathews 1981)

Neural control of heart how Important it is ?

Many sudden cardiac deaths are now believed to be neurogenic in origin . Though, somatic nerve supply of heart is least important except over pericardium , extensive sympathetic and parasympathetic nerve supply is present . They can now be visualized by adrenergic receptor imaging . Neuro cardiology is distinct developing field. A hyperbole: Of course one could argue , these connection has less overall significance as a person can live with an entirely new donor heart with zero neural connection with brain.